Madhya Pradesh High Court Declares Bhojshala a Temple, Addresses Religious Dispute
Bhojshala is a temple, says Madhya Pradesh High Court on disputed site
The Indian Express
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The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex is a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi Saraswati, allowing Hindu worship while ensuring Muslim rights. The court directed the ASI to manage the site and suggested the state government consider providing land for a mosque to uphold community rights.
- 01The court emphasized the historical association of Bhojshala with Raja Bhoj of the Parmar dynasty and its role as a center of Sanskrit learning.
- 02The ruling overturned a 2003 decision that restricted Hindu worship rights at the site.
- 03The ASI will maintain overall management of the Bhojshala complex under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
- 04The court noted that requests for the return of the idol of Goddess Saraswati from the UK should be considered by the Union government.
- 05The state government was advised to allocate land for a mosque if requested by the Muslim community.
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On Friday, the Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar district is primarily a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi Saraswati. This decision was based on historical literature and architectural evidence linking the site to Raja Bhoj of the Parmar dynasty, known for its significance in Sanskrit learning. The court's ruling allows Hindu worship at the complex, overturning a 2003 order that limited Hindu access while permitting Muslim prayers. The bench instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to manage the site while retaining authority over its preservation and conservation. Additionally, the court acknowledged petitions for the return of the idol of Goddess Saraswati currently held in a UK museum, suggesting that the Union government consider these requests. To ensure fairness, the court also proposed that the state government consider providing land for a mosque if a formal request is made by the Muslim community, thereby aiming to balance the religious rights of both communities involved in the dispute.
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The ruling may enhance Hindu worship rights at the Bhojshala complex while also addressing the needs of the Muslim community for a prayer facility.
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